If you're craving Mongolian beef, you can whip up this flavorful dish quickly! Start by slicing 1 pound of flank steak thinly and marinating it in 1/4 cup of soy sauce for about 30 minutes. Coat the marinated beef with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. In a hot skillet, stir-fry the beef until browned, then add your favorite veggies like bell peppers and broccoli. Finish by tossing in green onions for freshness. Sweeten the dish with 1/4 cup brown sugar, and serve it over rice or noodles. Want tips on customization and cooking techniques? There's more to explore!
Key Takeaways
- Slice flank steak thinly against the grain and marinate in soy sauce for at least 30 minutes for enhanced flavor.
- Coat the marinated beef in cornstarch to achieve a crispy texture when stir-frying.
- Stir-fry the coated beef in hot vegetable oil until browned, ensuring even cooking.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers and broccoli, then incorporate green onions for freshness and color.
- Serve the dish with steamed rice or noodles, and customize with spices or additional vegetables to taste.
History
While many might assume that Mongolian Beef hails directly from Mongolia, this popular dish actually has roots in American Chinese cuisine.
You'll find its origins in the United States during the late 20th century, where chefs began blending flavors and ingredients to create something unique. Inspired by traditional Mongolian barbecue, the dish showcases tender beef stir-fried with green onions in a sweet and savory sauce.
The dish's name pays homage to Mongolia's rich culinary history, even though it doesn't accurately reflect authentic Mongolian fare. Over time, it gained popularity in Chinese restaurants across America, becoming a staple on menus.
Recipe
Mongolian Beef is a delicious and savory dish that balances the sweetness of soy sauce, the heat of ginger, and the richness of tender beef. With its origins inspired by Mongolian barbecue, this dish has gained immense popularity in Chinese-American cuisine. It's simple to make yet packed with flavor, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
To create the ideal Mongolian Beef, you'll want to start with high-quality flank steak, which gives the dish its tender texture when cooked properly. Marinating the beef for a short time won't only enhance its flavor but also help to tenderize it.
Pair the beef with vibrant green onions and a savory sauce that coats each piece beautifully, resulting in a dish that's both visually appealing and satisfying to eat.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound flank steak, sliced thinly against the grain
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated
- 4 green onions, sliced
- Cooked rice, for serving
In a medium bowl, combine the sliced flank steak with soy sauce, brown sugar, and cornstarch, making sure the beef is well-coated. Allow it to marinate for about 15-30 minutes.
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated beef in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes until browned. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring for an additional minute until fragrant. Toss in the sliced green onions and cook for another minute. Serve the Mongolian Beef over cooked rice.
For the best results, make certain that the beef is sliced thinly and against the grain to maximize tenderness. If you prefer a little extra spice, feel free to add some red pepper flakes or a splash of chili sauce to the marinade.
Additionally, you can customize the dish by adding vegetables such as bell peppers or broccoli for extra color and nutrition. Enjoy your homemade Mongolian Beef!
Cooking Steps
To get started on your Mongolian beef, you'll want to slice the beef thinly and marinate it in soy sauce.
Once that's done, coating it with cornstarch will help achieve that perfect texture.
Next, you'll stir-fry with vegetables and add the green onions at the end for a burst of flavor.
Step 1. Slice Beef Thinly
Start by placing your beef in the freezer for about 30 minutes; this firms it up and makes slicing much easier.
Once it's slightly frozen, take it out and set it on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to slice the beef against the grain. Cutting against the grain helps break up the muscle fibers, resulting in more tender pieces.
Aim for thin slices, about 1/4 inch thick. If you find it challenging to slice, you can cut smaller sections at a time. Keep your knife steady for even slices, which will cook uniformly.
After slicing, gather the beef pieces and set them aside, ready for marinating and cooking. Thinly sliced beef is key to achieving that perfect Mongolian beef dish!
Step 2. Marinate in Soy Sauce
Once you've sliced the beef, it's essential to marinate it in soy sauce to infuse flavor and tenderize the meat.
In a bowl, combine the sliced beef with a generous amount of soy sauce. Make sure every piece is well-coated, ensuring that the flavors penetrate the meat.
You can also add a bit of minced garlic or ginger for an extra kick if you like. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer everything to a resealable bag to keep it sealed.
Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or longer if you have time. The longer you marinate, the more flavorful and tender your beef will be, setting the stage for a delicious Mongolian beef dish.
Step 3. Add Cornstarch for Coating
After marinating the beef, it's time to give it a nice coating that will help achieve a crispy texture when cooked.
Start by placing about a half cup of cornstarch in a shallow dish. Take each piece of marinated beef and dredge it in the cornstarch, ensuring it's evenly coated.
Shake off any excess cornstarch before setting the beef aside on a plate. This coating not only adds crunch but also helps to seal in the flavors during cooking.
If you prefer a thicker coating, you can double dip by dipping the beef back into the marinade before the cornstarch.
Once all the beef is coated, you're ready to move on to the next step in creating your delicious Mongolian beef.
Step 4. Stir-Fry With Vegetables
As you heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, add a tablespoon of oil to create a sizzling base for your stir-fry.
Once the oil's hot, toss in your coated beef, stirring quickly to sear it evenly. After a couple of minutes, when the beef is browned, remove it from the pan and set it aside.
Next, add a mix of your favorite vegetables—like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots—to the skillet.
Stir-fry them for about three to five minutes until they're tender-crisp. Don't forget to season with a splash of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for added flavor.
Once the vegetables are cooked, reintroduce the beef to the pan, mixing everything together before serving. To enhance the flavors, drizzle a bit of soy sauce over the mixture and stir well until everything is evenly coated. For those looking for detailed guidance, you can refer to the beef and broccoli cooking instructions which provide tips on achieving the perfect balance of taste and texture. Serve hot over a bed of steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Enjoy!
Step 5. Add Green Onions Last
To finish your Mongolian beef dish on a high note, add the green onions just before serving. This step not only brings a vibrant color to your plate but also enhances the dish's flavor profile.
Slice the green onions into thin pieces, separating the green tops from the white parts. You'll want to toss in the white parts during the final minute of cooking, allowing them to soften slightly.
The green tops should be added right before you serve. This keeps them fresh and crunchy, adding a delightful texture. Stir everything together for a few seconds, then plate your Mongolian beef. Enjoy the burst of flavor that the green onions bring to each bite!
Final Thoughts
While cooking Mongolian beef can seem intimidating at first, the satisfaction of creating this flavorful dish at home is well worth the effort. Once you master the basics, you'll find it's a quick meal that doesn't skimp on taste.
The combination of tender beef, savory sauce, and crisp green onions is sure to impress your family or guests.
Don't be afraid to customize it to your liking—add more vegetables or tweak the sweetness to suit your palate. Pair it with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Remember, practice makes perfect, so keep experimenting until you find your ideal balance. Soon, you'll be whipping up Mongolian beef like a pro, and it'll become a favorite in your cooking repertoire.
Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Chicken Instead of Beef in This Recipe?
You can definitely use chicken instead of beef in this recipe!
Just remember that chicken cooks faster, so you might want to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and guarantee it reaches a safe internal temperature.
The flavors will still shine through, and you'll create a delicious dish. Enjoy experimenting with your favorite ingredients, and don't hesitate to make it your own!
What Is the Best Cut of Beef for Mongolian Beef?
When you're choosing the best cut of beef, go for tender options like flank steak or sirloin.
These cuts have the right balance of flavor and tenderness that'll elevate your dish. Flank steak is particularly great for quick cooking, while sirloin adds a rich taste.
Make sure to slice it thin against the grain for the best texture. With the right cut, your dish will be delicious and satisfying!
How Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
To make your dish gluten-free, swap out soy sauce for a gluten-free alternative, like tamari or coconut aminos.
You can also use cornstarch instead of regular flour for thickening. Check the labels of any pre-packaged ingredients to verify they're gluten-free.
When you cook, keep an eye on cross-contamination if you're using shared kitchen tools.
With these adjustments, you'll enjoy a delicious gluten-free version without compromising on flavor!
What Side Dishes Pair Well With Mongolian Beef?
When you're looking for side dishes to complement your meal, consider steamed jasmine rice or fried rice for a flavorful touch.
You might also enjoy sautéed bok choy or broccoli, which adds a nice crunch and color.
If you want something lighter, a simple cucumber salad can provide an invigorating contrast.
Don't forget crispy spring rolls for a delightful appetizer; they'll round out your dining experience perfectly!
How Do I Store Leftovers Properly?
To store leftovers properly, let 'em cool down to room temperature first.
Then, transfer them into an airtight container to keep them fresh. You can refrigerate them for up to three to four days.
If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just make certain to label the container with the date.
When you're ready to enjoy them again, reheat thoroughly to ascertain they're safe to eat.
Arf, an author and an innovative enthusiast of coffee, coffee alternatives, and tea, plays a crucial role as a contributor to the esteemed Cappuccino Oracle platform. Renowned for his curiosity and passion for these captivating beverages, Arf has carved out a unique space for himself in the world of exploration and writing. He realized that coffee, coffee alternatives, and tea are not mere drinks to keep one awake, but universes of flavors and stories waiting to be explored.
